Tips on Buying the Right Dog Collar

Contrary to popular belief, and being illegal in Wales, shock collars are not synonymous to torture devices. They are, in fact, electronic training aids attached to the collar.

Getting home a dog? Then buying the perfect collar for him should top your priority list. Today, the purpose of a dog collar is not limited to mere control and identification, but it has also gained recognition in the fashion sector. Having said that, there are certain tips that you must know before you hit the store to buy a collar for your canine.

The type of collar you choose largely depends on the breed, size, and age of the dog. Dogs having a thick, hairy coat should not be fitted with a decorative, jeweled, or mounted collar. Such types of collars can get entangled in a dog's fur, causing him injury or skin infections.

Since the collar contains vital information about the owner in case the dog gets lost, it should be clearly visible to others and should not hide between the dog's hair. Also, if it gets lost in the dog's hair, it makes it tough to attach the leash and maneuver it.

Dog breeds that are highly active need a properly fitted collar that does not come off easily. However, some dogs can even strangle themselves during a play; hence, during such situations a 'break-away' collar is ideal, which is easy to remove in case of an accident.

Non-active dog breeds are comfortable sporting a jeweled collar, since their sedentary lifestyle reduces the chances of inuring themselves with a decorative collar. It is important to note here that, even in the case of non-active dog breeds, the dog's coat is a major decisive factor.

One of the most commonly used simple or basic collars is the buckle collar that is made from nylon webbing or leather. This collar has a buckle that is similar to a traditional belt buckle and has adjusting points to loosen or tighten the grip around the dog's neck.

Buckle collars are recommended to be used every time when your dog is not undergoing training. At times, traditional buckle collars are also accompanied by flea collars that are instilled with chemicals to repel fleas.

Choke chains have metal rings at each end so that they form a collar around a dog's neck without much of a hassle and have a good grip, too. The leash is then attached to the free loop (live ring) which self-adjusts when tightened around the neck. This technique is widely used when dogs undergo obedience training.

Prong or pinch collars are one of the effective training collars and can be easily adjusted around the trainee dog's neck. The collar is designed in such a way that it 'pinches' the dog when the leash attached to it is pulled. Although the prongs of the collar seem like they'll harm the dog severely, these chains are extremely safe and sometimes even come with plastic caps to be put at the end of the prongs for safety.

These collars are perfect for those dog breeds with small-sized heads (smaller than the neck). In breeds like the Sighthound or Greyhound, the head of the dog is comparatively smaller in diameter than its neck, and hence, a simple collar can easily slip out. Martingale collars apply even pressure on the dog's neck when the leash is pulled.

Head halters are designed in a way that the collar is tied around the back of the neck, going over the upper portion of the muzzle. Using this way, the owner can control his dog's direction, and at the same time, give the dog enough room to breathe and pant.

Harnesses are made especially for the mischievous and hyperactive dog breeds. Nowadays, harnesses along with a collar are recommended for those dogs that have a history of breathing and throat problems. They are also used as an alternative to dog collars.

Ensure that you conduct thorough research before zeroing on the right collar for your dog breed. Pay attention to little details when you're buying the product, else it'll end up in a trip to the emergency room.